About MOST

Our industry saw a need for change in 1989 that focused on elevating Boilermaker performance, instilling a culture of safety and bringing added value to the union-Owner-Contractor relationship. From this need, a joint effort of the Brotherhood and NACBE created the Manpower (Manpower was changed to Mobilization in 1991), Optimization, Stabilization and Training trust fund, or MOST. MOST enabled Boilermakers and signatory Contactors to establish a funding mechanism for program development and administration, and the National Tripartite Alliance pioneered innovative approaches to safety, training, drug testing and other industry priorities.

International President Charles W. Jones introduced MOST during the 1989 Construction Division conference in Kansas City. His dedication to increasing the skills of Boilermakers while providing value to Owners and Contractors was formally recognized when MOST was awarded one of the construction industry’s highest honors – the Construction Innovation Forum NOVA Award.

The collective efforts of MOST saves lives, reduces lost time and compensable injuries, improves productivity, and saves Owners and Contractors billions of dollars.

MOST focuses on improving the quality and skill level of Boilermakers, while providing efficiencies and cost effectiveness to the industry. For example, MOST programs such as the Boilermaker Delivery System provide hiring halls greater efficiency in managing manpower requests, while allowing Boilermakers broader access to the Travelers Pool. In addition, the system is aligned with the Joint Referral Rules to help reduce job-hopping and absenteeism. Another program – The Boilermaker Code – is designed “as a guidepost for all Boilermakers to perform at the highest levels in their industry,” according to International President Newton B. Jones.

Today, MOST remains a pillar of excellence, standing apart as a forum to discuss and solve industry challenges, fulfill the promise of safety for Boilermakers and deliver unmatched value to our business partners.